Obama to ask Congress to OK strike on Syria

Leaders agree to have debate after summer recess

1:42 AM,
Sep. 1, 2013

President Barack Obama makes a statement Saturday about the crisis in Syria, in the Rose Garden of the White House. Obama abruptly announced Saturday he will seek congressional approval before launching any military action.

Written by

Aamer Madhani
and Susan Davis

President Barack Obama said Saturday that he was ready to take military action against Syrian President Bashar Assad, but that he will seek the approval of Congress before carrying out any military strike.

Obama said congressional leaders have agreed to schedule a debate and vote when they return to session. They are scheduled to return from their summer recess Sept. 9.

The president did not say whether he'd forgo a strike if Congress rejects his call to action. ...